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What Does It Mean? |
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BMI is only one piece of a person's health profile. It is important to talk with your doctor about other measures and risk factors. (e.g., waist circumference, smoking, physical activity level, and diet.) BMI does not measure body fat, it is only an indicator of body fat. Two people can have the same BMI, but a different percent body fat. A bodybuilder with a large muscle mass and a low percent body fat may have the same BMI as a person who has more body fat because BMI is calculated using weight and height only. BMI is just one of many factors related to developing a chronic disease (such as heart disease, cancer, or diabetes). BMI is not the only indicator of health risk. Other factors that may be important to look at when assessing your risk for chronic disease include:
Whatever your BMI, talk to your doctor to see if you are at an increased risk for disease and if you should lose weight. Even a small weight loss (just 10% of your current weight) may help to lower the risk of disease. Physical activity and good nutrition are key factors in leading a healthy lifestyle and reducing risk for disease.
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